5 tips for managing ADHD in daily life
Living with ADHD can be challenging, but there are many strategies that can help you manage your symptoms and improve your daily functioning. Here are five tips to get you started:
Ditch the social media productivity advice and find what works for you. Everyone with ADHD is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. It's important to experiment with different strategies and figure out what works best for you. Start thinking about whether the content you are consuming is made for neurotypical people or is designed for ADHD success. Check out additude.com and chadd.org for some ADHD friendly ideas.
Find accountability. One of the best ways to get things done with ADHD is co-working or body doubling. Chat with a friend on the phone while you fold laundry or have a weekly check in with a coworker with goals similar to yours. Go to a workout class instead of expecting yourself to meet your fitness goals alone. You can also ask for accountability from your certified ADHD coach or therapist.
Take breaks and give yourself time to recharge. ADHD can make it difficult to concentrate for long periods of time. Taking breaks to stretch, walk around, or do something enjoyable can help you refocus when you return to your tasks. Avoid spending all of your recharge time on social media. The constant consumption of information and ideas can add to mental fatigue.
Don't be hard on yourself. Living with ADHD can be tough, and it's easy to get frustrated when things don't go as planned. Remember that you are doing the best you can and be kind to yourself. Leaning in to self-compassion can also help you get back on the horse when you’ve fallen off. Talk to yourself as you would a child needing love and support.
Seek professional help. Whether it's from a therapist, a coach, or a support group, connecting with others who understand what you're going through can be incredibly helpful. You don't have to go through this journey alone.
